Planning for Industrial-Scale Infrastructure

Planning for Industrial-Scale Infrastructure projects in a municipality.

With the rapid growth of new technologies, industrial-scale land uses are becoming increasingly common across the country. Large-scale projects such as solar and wind energy facilities, battery storage systems, data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations are reaching rural communities looking to maintain as much of their character. While these projects may provide some financial benefits, they can also create significant concerns related to community character, environmental impacts, land use compatibility, traffic, noise, and long-term sustainability.

The utility and suitability of industrial-scale land uses varies greatly from one municipality to another. Rural towns often face unique challenges when evaluating these proposals, especially when projects are introduced to communities with limited infrastructure, agricultural communities and scenic landscapes.

Each community should have the ability to determine what types of development aligns with its long-term vision. Comprehensive plans, zoning regulations, and land use policies provide communities with tools to thoughtfully evaluate where industrial-scale uses may be appropriate, under what conditions they should operate, and where they may not be compatible. Planning efforts should also consider infrastructure capacity, emergency services, agricultural protection, environmental resources, visual impacts, and the cumulative effects of large-scale projects over time.

For our rural communities in Cattaraugus County, planning for industrial-scale land uses is about ensuring growth occurs in a manner that reflects the local communities’ priorities. By establishing clear policies and expectations before projects are proposed, municipalities can better protect community character and reduce conflict during project review.

Examples of Industrial-Scale Infrastructure

Wind/Solar Facilities
Battery Energy Storage Facilities
Data/Crypto Centers

Example Laws:

The example laws below provide municipalities the freedom to fill in what works for their community.

Cattaraugus County Planning is available to discuss options and provide technical assistance for approaches to planning for Industrial-Scale infrastructure.